Journeying through Switzerland, the vistas that unfold from train, coach, or cable car windows often resemble timeless postcards. These epic alpine scenes are adorned with year-round snowy peaks, fairytale castles, spired churches, and quaint chalets, creating a magical backdrop that has captivated visitors for generations.
A Museum Without Walls in the High Alps
Beyond the classic scenery, certain destinations combine awe-inspiring natural beauty with compelling contemporary art. The French-speaking south-west region of Switzerland excels in this fusion. A prime example is the Verbier 3-D Fountain Sculpture Park, situated 2300 metres above sea level, which operates as a museum without walls.
In an area renowned for skiing, this not-for-profit initiative promotes art, nature, and environmentalism. Co-founded in 2010 by Swiss-American artist Madeleine Paternot and Kiki Thompson—a Geneva-born, Cambridge-educated artist based in Verbier—the park draws inspiration from the rugged majesty of the Alps. Thompson transitioned from professional snowboarding to sculpting, infusing her work with the region's natural grandeur.
Open year-round between the La Chaux and Les Ruinettes ski lifts above Verbier, admission is free. Visitors can explore a 3km trail featuring thought-provoking pieces by Swiss and international artists. Recent highlights include works by Cannupa Hanska Luger, a New Mexico-based Native American artist whose colourful, inventive pieces address politics, immigration, and Indigenous themes.
Lakeside Art on Lac Léman
An hour's drive or a scenic rail journey away, the shores of Lake Geneva—known as Lac Léman in French—offer more Insta-friendly art. While statues of Charlie Chaplin in Vevey and Freddie Mercury in Montreux are famous, numerous other alfresco artworks deserve attention.
Strolling along Montreux's lakeside promenade past the Mercury statue reveals eclectic sculptures depicting abstract, animal, human, and mythical figures. Many are past winners of the prestigious Montreux Biennale, held every two years. Permanent installations include an oversized wire bird sculpture by Swiss artist Michel Buchs.
During the balmy northern summer, the 2025 Biennale showcased 46 temporary entries. Notable pieces included a giant pink bunny by Danish sculptor Gleb Dusavitskiy, a trio of sleek nude bronze female figures by Swiss artist Lukas Grogg, and a seahorse by France's Kim Boulukos. The art is enhanced by the splendid lakeside setting, making a return visit for the 2027 edition highly appealing.
Unexpected Artistic Gems Across Switzerland
Switzerland's major cities like Zurich and Bern also excel with contemporary art installations. However, some smaller towns and villages surprise with their creativity. For instance, Brè—a tiny medieval village above Lake Lugano in Ticino, the Italian-speaking canton—features lanes, walls, and gardens adorned with quirky murals and sculptures.
This blend of natural beauty and artistic innovation underscores Switzerland's unique cultural landscape, inviting travellers to explore beyond the traditional postcard views.
